Leadville News – August 26

Maintenance Begins on Xcel Powerlines

Residents situated at the base of Mt. Massive began noticing an increase in helicopter activity in the skies last week. But this time it’s not due to high – altitude aircraft testing, but rather these whirly birds are doing work on the electrical transmission lines.

Maintenance activities began last week on Xcel Energy’s transmission line #5245, which connects the Malta substation (pictured here, located south of Leadville) to the Hopkins substation (southeast of Glenwood Springs). Photo: Leadville Today

Maintenance activities began last week on Xcel Energy’s transmission line #5245, which connects the Malta substation (south of Leadville) to the Hopkins substation (southeast of Glenwood Springs). Along this route, the transmission line traverses more than 40 miles of the White River National Forest, from Hagerman Pass in the southeast, across Crooked Creek Pass, and over Cottonwood Pass near its northwest terminus.

These maintenance activities are expected to last through the end of September and will involve periodic use of helicopters to transport materials for new tower structures and other equipment. During these activities, Forest visitors may encounter work crews and potential short traffic stoppages (for public safety) while traveling along the following National Forest System Roads: NFSR 105 (Fryingpan), NFSR 532 (Powerline-Cunningham), NFSR 502 (Powerline-Diemer), NFSR 506 (Burnt Mountain), NFSR 431 (Powerline-Crooked Creek), NFSR 414 (Brush-Gypsum), and NFSR 412 (Gypsum Creek).

Xcel Energy continues to do routine maintenance as well as replacement (pictured here along Hwy 285) for its vast network of utility poles in order to keep pace with consumer demands. Photo: Leadville Today

“The Forest Service recognizes that these maintenance activities are necessary for ensuring the long-term reliability of an essential part of our local infrastructure,” said District Ranger Aaron Mayville. “With a busy fire and recreation season, many people using their national forest this summer, we will work closely with Xcel Energy to ensure that their work is conducted as quickly and safely as possible.”

At this time, the White River National Forest does not anticipate a need for road or trail closures as a result of this work; however, the public is urged to use caution in the vicinity of the project. Please check the White River National Forest website for updated information at the “Alerts and Notices” page. If you have any questions, please contact the Eagle-Holy Cross District at 970-827-5715.

Did You Know . . . White River National Forest is the most visited national forest in the nation encompassing 2.3 million acres. With 11 ski resorts, eight Wilderness areas, 10 mountain peaks over 14,000 feet and 2,500 miles of trails, this forest is a place where you can press play on adventure and inspiration!